Go Red for Women: Raising Awareness About Heart Disease in Women

February is Heart Health Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to join the fight against heart disease—the leading cause of death among women. The Go Red for Women campaign, spearheaded by the American Heart Association, aims to raise awareness, educate, and inspire action to improve women's heart health.

Show Your Support with Red Dress and Red Heart Pins

One of the easiest and most impactful ways to support the cause is by wearing a Red Dress Pin or Red Heart Pin. These symbols represent solidarity and a shared commitment to preventing heart disease in women.

How Pins Make a Difference:

• Fundraising Opportunities: Pins can be sold at events, online, or in community spaces to raise funds for heart disease research and education programs.

• Awareness Tools: Handing out pins at workplaces, schools, or social gatherings encourages conversations about heart health.

• Memorable Gifts: Pins serve as keepsakes to remind wearers about the importance of heart health year-round.

Why Focus on Heart Disease in Women?

While heart disease has often been viewed as a "man’s disease," it actually affects women just as much. In fact:

• Heart disease is the number one killer of women, causing 1 in 3 deaths each year.

• Symptoms in women can be subtle and often mistaken for anxiety, stress, or fatigue.

• Risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and high cholesterol disproportionately affect women.

What Can You Do to Protect Your Heart?

1. Know Your Numbers: Schedule regular check-ups to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and body mass index (BMI).

2. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting saturated fats, sodium, and sugars.

3. Get Moving: Engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.

4. Quit Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of heart disease and stroke significantly.

5. Manage Stress: Incorporate stress-relief activities like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing into your routine.

6. Spread Awareness: Wear your red dress or red heart pin and share information on social media using the hashtag #GoRedForWomen.

Join the Movement

Whether you’re buying a red dress pin to support the cause, hosting a fundraiser, or simply wearing red to spark conversations, every action helps in the fight against heart disease. This February, let’s stand together, raise awareness, and save lives.

For more information, resources, and ways to get involved, visit the Go Red for Women website and make heart health a priority in your life and community.